Even short backpacking trips can feel long if you're saddled with heavy stuff. So take up fast hiking, and gear up with this featherweight tech.

Garmin Fenix, $400

Garmin Fenix, $400

Many GPS watches are humongous, but the Fenix is actually the size of, well, a watch. The device has onscreen mapping, can send your route via Bluetooth to your phone, and has the ability to zoom in and out—all the better to see your surroundings and heading.

Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket, $150

Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket, $150

This jacket not only stuffs to the size of a tennis ball and weighs as much as a PB&J sandwich (6.4 ounces), its Pertex fabric breathes and laughs off wind and rain. Plus, the microripstop fabric prevents small snags from turning into large tears.